Paper Authors

Fathi Finaish

Abstract

NOTE: The first page of text has been automatically extracted and included below in lieu of an abstract

Session 1202

A Product Realization Exercise for Aerospace Engineering Students

Fathi Finaish

Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
and Engineering Mechanics
University of Missouri-Rolla
Rolla, Missouri 65401

Abstract
This paper describes a product realization exercise tailored for undergraduate aerospace
engineering students. The project is a new component of a design course incorporated recently
into the Aerospace Engineering curriculum at the University of Missouri-Rolla offered during the
sophomore year. This component is designed to extend learning opportunities that apply the
fundamentals of design along with hands-on experiences. The students are required to analyze
and solve open-ended design problems, test and experiment with different concepts, and use
engineering process skills such as teamwork and development of technical reports. An emphasis
is placed on the connection between theory and design applications, comparisons of analytical
work with test results, reporting, and working with peers. Details on this effort and organization
of the developed material are given.

Introduction
In recent years, there has been remarkable changes in methodologies by which aerospace
companies develop their products. As a result, the length of the
design/prototype/manufacture/market/support cycle has been reduced dramatically. As a
consequence of these changes, engineers need considerable breadth to function well in this rapid
product development cycle. This includes understanding the interplay between various
engineering fields; understanding the relationship between design and market considerations; and
being able to communicate well. Perhaps one may recapitulate the most attributes desired of an
engineer by listing the following ten attributes affirmed recently by Boeing:

1. A good understanding of engineering science fundamentals.
2. A good understanding of design and manufacturing processes.
3. A multi-disciplinary, systems perspective.
4. A basic understanding of the context in which engineering is practiced, including
economics, history, the environment, and customer and societal needs.
5. Good written, verbal, graphic, and listening communication skills.
6. High ethical standards.
7. Critical and creative thinking, both independently and cooperatively.
8. Ability and self confidence to adapt to rapid and major change.
9. Curiosity and the desire for lifelong learning.
10. Understanding and commitment of team work.